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Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling to Co To Island
Co To Island: Vietnam’s Northeastern Paradise – Your Complete Travel Guide
Co To Island
Discover Vietnam’s Hidden Gem in the Gulf of Tonkin
Located just 260 km from Hanoi and 22 km from Cai Rong Port in Van Don, Co To Island stands as one of Vietnam’s best-kept secrets. This pristine archipelago in Vietnam’s northeastern waters offers travelers an authentic escape from more commercialized destinations. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, immaculate white sandy beaches, and lush forests, Co To Island provides the perfect balance of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Planning a trip to Northern Vietnam? Halong Bay Lux Cruises offers exclusive packages that include Co To Island exploration.
Co To Island is a picturesque archipelago in Quang Ninh Province, consisting of Co To Lon (Big Co To), Co To Con (Small Co To), and Thanh Lan Island. What separates Co To from other Vietnamese coastal destinations is its remarkably pristine environment and authentic charm.
The island is home to approximately 5,000 residents who primarily make their living through fishing. In recent years, the community has embraced tourism while maintaining their traditional way of life, creating a welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese island experience.
Due to its strategic position in Vietnam’s northeastern waters, Co To Island also holds historical significance as an important maritime outpost, shaping its unique development and cultural identity.
Water conditions: Calm, clear waters with excellent visibility
Activities: Optimal for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking
Atmosphere: Lively with local festivals and bustling markets
Consideration: Larger crowds and higher prices, especially during Vietnamese holidays
Shoulder Season (September-October)
Weather: Pleasant temperatures (22-28°C/72-82°F), decreasing humidity
Tourist presence: Fewer visitors than summer months
Advantages: Reduced prices, stunning sunset photography, more relaxed pace
Experience: Greater opportunity to interact with locals
Off-Season (November-March)
Weather: Cooler temperatures (15-20°C/59-68°F), frequent rain and fog
Limitations: Reduced boat services, restricted water activities
Services: Some restaurants and accommodations close
Consideration: Potential for travel disruptions due to weather
For most travelers, visiting between April and October offers the best experience on Co To Island. Halong Bay Lux Cruises can help you plan your trip during optimal weather conditions.
How to Get There
Reaching Co To Island involves a two-stage journey: first to Cai Rong Port from Hanoi, then taking a boat to the island.
From Hanoi to Cai Rong Port
Bus Services (4 hours)
Cost: 170,000-220,000 VND ($7-9 USD)
Departure points: My Dinh, Gia Lam, or Lương Yên bus stations
Frequency: Multiple departures daily, earliest at 6:00 AM
Tip: Book at least one day in advance during peak season
Limousine Services (3.5-4 hours)
Cost: From 350,000 VND ($14-15 USD)
Advantages: Hotel pickup, air-conditioning, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi
Popular operators: Limousine Quảng Ninh, Queen Cafe, Good Morning Cat Ba
Recommendation: Online reservation recommended
Self-Driven Motorbike Option
Rental costs: 150,000-300,000 VND per day ($6-12 USD)
Route: Highway 18 through Bac Ninh, Hai Duong, and Quang Ninh provinces
Requirements: International driving permit
Note: Appropriate for experienced riders only
From Cai Rong Port to Co To Island
High-Speed Boats (75 minutes)
Cost: Approximately 250,000 VND ($10-11 USD) one-way
Schedule: 4-7 daily departures in peak season
Timing: First boats around 7:30 AM, last return boats around 3:00 PM
Capacity: 50-80 passengers depending on vessel size
Traditional Wooden Boats (2.5 hours)
Cost: Approximately 95,000 VND ($4 USD) one-way
Schedule: Less frequent, typically 1-2 departures daily
Experience: More authentic but less comfortable
Recommendation: Better for budget travelers not pressed for time
Halong Bay Lux Cruises offers transportation packages that include comfortable transfers to and from Co To Island.
Must-Visit Attractions
1. Au Cang Harbor
Located just 2km south of Co To town, Au Cang Harbor offers:
Photographic excellence with fishing boats against azure waters
Cultural immersion through observing local fishing activities
Spectacular sunset views over the Gulf of Tonkin
Opportunity to interact with local fishermen
Morning fish trading experiences
2. Co To Walking Street
This 205-meter pedestrianized stretch represents the social and culinary heart of Co To Town:
Numerous food stalls serving fresh seafood and traditional cuisine
Evening entertainment with live music, especially on weekends
Local craft sellers offering handmade souvenirs
Traditional cultural performances during festivals
Family-friendly atmosphere with games and entertainment
3. Ho Chi Minh Historical Site
The only memorial President Ho Chi Minh personally approved during his lifetime:
Commemorates Ho Chi Minh’s visit to Co To Island in 1962
Features traditional Vietnamese architectural design
Educational photographic exhibitions
Beautifully maintained gardens with native plants
Important cultural context to the island’s development
4. Van Chai Beach
Often cited as Co To’s most beautiful beach:
Powder-soft white sand extending for nearly two kilometers
Exceptional water clarity with visibility to several meters depth
Natural shade from casuarina trees
Minimal commercial development preserving natural character
Perfect for sunrise views over the South China Sea
5. Love Road (Con Đường Tình Yêu)
A romantic coastal pathway along Co To’s northeastern shoreline:
Panoramic views over rocky outcrops and distant islands
Popular spot for couples, especially at sunset
Dramatic rock formations perfect for photography
Well-maintained pathway for leisurely walks
Originally constructed as a military patrol route
Activities and Adventures
Water-Based Adventures
Paragliding Over Crystal Waters
Experience level: Available for beginners and experienced paragliders
Cost: 800,000-1,200,000 VND ($35-50 USD) for tandem flights
Visual rewards: Breathtaking aerial views of the entire archipelago
Season: Available only during peak season with optimal wind conditions
Kayaking Through Serene Bays
Routes: Multiple itineraries from 1-4 hours exploring coves and smaller islands
Rental: Approximately 150,000 VND ($6-7 USD) per hour
Highlights: Access to secluded beaches unreachable by larger vessels
Options: Special sunset kayaking tours for unique photography opportunities
Banana Boat Rides
Cost: Approximately 200,000 VND ($8-9 USD) per person
Duration: 15-20 minute rides
Location: Primarily operating from Hong Van and Van Chai beaches
Requirements: Minimum age typically 12 years; must be able to swim
Land-Based Activities
Beach Hopping and Swimming
Popular circuit: Hong Van, Van Chai, Bac Van, and Small Co To beaches
Best timing: Early morning (7:00-9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM)
Family-friendly: Hong Van Beach most suitable for families with young children
Hiking and Forest Exploration
Highlight route: Trail to Co To Lighthouse for panoramic views
Options: Hikes ranging from 1-hour gentle walks to 4-hour challenging routes
Guided tours: Local guides available (300,000 VND for half-day excursions)
Wildlife: Opportunities to spot indigenous bird species and unique island flora
Photography Expeditions
Sunrise spots: East-facing beaches like Van Chai
Sunset locations: Au Cang Harbor and Love Road
Cultural photography: Morning fish markets for authentic lifestyle documentation
Photography tours: Specialized guides available (500,000 VND for half-day)
Halong Bay Lux Cruises can arrange exclusive activity packages during your Co To Island visit.
Local Cuisine Highlights
Signature Seafood Specialties
Fresh Ha Long Sea Cucumber
Preparation: Typically served in a clear broth with minimal seasoning
Texture: Distinctive gelatinous consistency with subtle umami qualities
Price: 150,000-250,000 VND ($6-11 USD) depending on preparation
Recommended venue: Hải Sản Cô Tô restaurant near the main harbor
Grilled Mantis Shrimp (Tôm Tít Nướng)
Preparation: Grilled over charcoal with garlic butter and local herbs
Flavor: Sweet, delicate flesh with smoky charcoal notes
Season: Best quality available May through August
Price: Approximately 300,000-400,000 VND per kilogram ($13-17 USD)
Famous Co To Sun-Dried Squid (Mực Khô)
Process: Traditional multi-day sun-drying techniques
Serving options: Grilled, pan-fried with butter, or as beer accompaniment
Souvenir potential: Vacuum-packed versions available to take home
Taste: Complex umami flavor with subtle sweetness
Local Shellfish Varieties
Highlights: “Tu Hài” (Geoduck) and “Ngán” (Pacific Ocean clam)
Preparation: Often steamed with minimal ingredients to preserve natural flavors
Experience: Mixed shellfish platters available for sampling various types
Freshness: Reputable establishments display live specimens before preparation
Other Notable Culinary Experiences
Co To Herbal Fish Hot Pot
Distinctive elements: Local herbs found only on the island archipelago
Experience: Traditional communal dining experience
Ingredients: Fresh fish with herb broth, vegetables, and rice noodles
Price: 400,000-600,000 VND ($17-26 USD) for pot serving 3-4 people
Island-Style Fried Rice
Highlights: Traditional Vietnamese fried rice enhanced with abundant seafood
Technique: Wok-fried over high heat using time-honored methods
Distinction: Higher seafood-to-rice ratio than mainland versions
Price: 70,000-120,000 VND ($3-5 USD)
Fresh Tropical Fruit Selections
Varieties: Mango, pineapple, dragon fruit, and lychee available seasonally
Options: Enjoyed fresh, as smoothies, or in refreshing desserts
Recommendation: Best purchased from morning markets for optimal freshness
Tradition: Reflects Vietnamese custom of ending meals with fresh fruit
Experience authentic Vietnamese island cuisine with Halong Bay Lux Cruises’ culinary tours on Co To Island.
Travel Tips
Boat schedules: Always check the latest boat schedule before planning your journey
Timing: During peak season, arrive at Cai Rong Port at least 60 minutes before departure
Documentation: Carry your passport for boat ticket verification
Weather awareness: Services may be canceled during poor weather conditions
Accommodation: Consider spending a night in Van Don if arriving late
Language: Basic Vietnamese phrases are helpful as English is limited in some areas
Cash: Bring sufficient cash as ATMs are limited on the island
Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM card for reliable internet access
Respect: Observe local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites
Plan Your Co To Island Adventure
Ready to explore Vietnam’s northeastern paradise? Halong Bay Lux Cruises offers comprehensive travel packages that include Co To Island experiences. From transportation and accommodation to guided tours and culinary adventures, our expert team ensures a seamless journey through this pristine archipelago.
